NFL Mock Draft 2014: Chargers pick 25th

Chargers address defense with first two picks: a corner and an edge rusher

Louisville quarterback Teddy Bridgewater (5) throws prior to the start of the Sugar Bowl NCAA college football game against Florida on Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2013, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
— AP

Louisville quarterback Teddy Bridgewater (5) throws prior to the start of the Sugar Bowl NCAA college football game against Florida on Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2013, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
/ AP

The Texans have locked up the No. 1 overall pick for the third time in franchise history. The only way they don't draft a quarterback is if they sign one in free agency or trade for one. Last year only one quarterback was drafted in the first round, but there will be several quarterback needy teams picking early in May.

As of Tuesday, a record 88 underclassmen opted to leave at least one season of NCAA eligibility on the table. That total shatters last year's mark of 73, after 65 declared in 2012 and 56 in 2011. Of the 73 underclassmen who entered last year's draft, 21 went unselected.

Non-senior players have until today to declare for the NFL draft so stay tuned. Until then, here is my updated 2014 NFL Mock Draft including the first two rounds:

ROUND ONE

1) Houston (2-14) — Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville, Jr.

Local star Johnny Manziel is the more dynamic athlete. Central Florida's Blake Bortles may possess an even higher upside and new Texans' head coach Bill O'Brien is familiar with him after he and the Nittany Lions faced UCF in September. However, Bridgewater's accuracy, underrated athleticism and experience in a pro-style scheme make him a better fit here, especially with immediate results expected in today's NFL. Top needs: QB, OT, S.

This pick belongs to the Rams because of the gift that keeps on giving: The Robert Griffin trade. In a perfect world, I know the Rams would love to trade this pick, move down a few spots while stockpiling picks, and still land Matthews. He'd be worthy of the top overall pick in most drafts. Top needs: S, WR, OL.

3) Jacksonville (4-12) — Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M, So.

Coach Gus Bradley has experience with short, charismatic quarterbacks, and I'm sure owner Shad Kahn would appreciate adding a showman like Johnny Football. Manziel's arm strength and accuracy improved during his sophomore season, and the eyes in the back of his head still maintain 20/20 vision. The biggest question for Manziel during the draft process will be how he interviews. Some teams could be turned off by his personality. That would be a mistake on their part. Top needs: QB, DE, OT.

4) Cleveland (4-12) — Derek Carr, QB, Fresno St., Sr.

The Browns are, once again, in search of a new head coach after firing Rob Chudzinski after one season. Barring a trade or a free agent signing, the new coach will surely want his quarterback of the future. Carr certainly didn't help himself in the Bulldogs loss to USC in the Las Vegas Bowl, but you can't deny his prolific senior season: He finished the year with 5,083 passing yards, 50 touchdowns and only eight interceptions. A successful performance during Senior Bowl week will be vital for his draft stock. Top needs: QB, RB, OG.